Music

24kGoldn And Dababy Fend Off Finicky Female Friends On ‘Coco’

The 20-year-old San Francisco rapper looks to extend the successful run kicked off by his chart-topping hit ‘Mood.’ …

2020 XXL Freshman 24kGoldn is having a stellar year. The 20-year-old rapper from San Francisco has ruled the Hot 100 chart with his Iann Dior collaboration “Mood” for the past five weeks thanks to its status as a TikTok juggernaut, as well as a remix from Justin Bieber and J Balvin. But rather than rest on his laurels, Goldn has rolled out his next hopeful hit, this time collaborating with a big-name partner in the form of North Carolina rapper DaBaby on “Coco.”

The second single from 24kGoldn’s debut album El Dorado, “Coco” once again finds him in full-on relationship therapy mode as he wonders, “Oh my God, why is shawty tryna test me?” In this instance, he uses the metaphor of famous French fashion (and noted Nazi agent — look it up!) Coco Chanel to comment on his partner’s volatility. 24k’s Coco, however, is fickle, swinging back and forth between trying to lock him down and wanting to be a free spirit. “Can’t seem to figure out what’s wrong with ya,” he laments. “Checking your temperature, thermometer.”

At the moment, El Dorado has a 2021 release date, although the rapper told Variety he’s “definitely not in a rush.” It sounds like he wants to build up a rollout that will live up to his status as a chart-topping hitmaker, which can only bode well for his future — and XXL‘s predictive abilities.

Listen to “Coco” above.

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Artist Spotlight

Vishwa Ganesh stirs a mesmerizing pure rhythmic joy with “Don’t Wanna Go”

Hit play to briefly escape the world with “Don’t Wanna Go,” an innovative work by emerging artist Vishwa Ganesh. Based in Dubai, this dynamic vocalist embarks on a delightful creative adventure, offering listeners a richly vibrant, intimate, and cohesive auditory experience. Recorded in his hometown of Dubai, “Don’t Wanna Go” pairs rhythmic hooks with lighthearted vibes and infectious energy from the first beat. Vishwa’s velvety vocals float effortlessly over intricate production and instrumentation, while the immersive Dolby Atmos mix elevates the listening experience to a whole new dimension.

Breaking away from his customary narrative-driven style, he adopts a comprehensive role as a writer, composer, and performer, leveraging his multifaceted talents to craft an upbeat track that encapsulates a danceable anthem celebrating the sheer joy of being present at the moment. Each meticulously fused sound feels perfectly placed, enveloping audiences in a kaleidoscope of melodies that inspire their feet to move.

What truly sets this track apart is its dedication to authenticity. Eschewing pre-made samples and loops, Vishwa crafted this masterpiece entirely from scratch. That raw creativity shines through, making each note, rhythm, and harmony personal and intentional. The result is a standout track in his discography that doesn’t just entertain; it connects.

“Don’t Wanna Go” embodies a sensibility that encourages individuals to immerse themselves in its exuberant rhythms through high-energy dance scenarios or simply enjoying intimate listening vibes with headphones. It reminds us that music can be a profound source of unfiltered happiness, providing a respite from the distractions and complexities of everyday life.

Through “Don’t Wanna Go,” Vishwa Ganesh conjures an enchanting sonic vibe that merits inclusion on every playlist. He transforms mundane moments into spontaneous dance opportunities while demonstrating his versatility as an artist. This work underscores his musical evolution as a noteworthy trajectory to follow. Set it on repeat, and you will find it hard to let go.

CLICK HERE TO STREAM Vishwa Ganesh’s “Don’t Wanna Go“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Vishwa Ganesh | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok |

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Artist Spotlight

“Pretty Ugly” by Archer Stevens stirs the soul with retro-modern rock vibes

“Pretty Ugly,” the inaugural single by Archer Stevens, represents a compelling homage to the golden age of 70s rock music with a fresh coat of modern vibrancy. From the outset, the track masterfully exudes an irresistible energy that embodies vintage and contemporary influences, acting as a sonic bridge between eras. The Phoenix-based ensemble skillfully weaves their influences into a pronounced, personal narrative.

A noteworthy aspect of the track is its instrumentation. Recorded across three diverse locations, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and even Peru, the song has a global resonance. The incorporation of congas introduces a surprising layer of depth and rhythm, giving “Pretty Ugly” a distinct flair that separates it from cookie-cutter rock releases. This thoughtful musical choice enhances the song’s groove, complementing the shimmering guitar lines and soulful vocal delivery.

Lyrically, “Pretty Ugly” plays on contrasts, embodying the emotional push and pull of life’s dualities. The heartfelt lyrics evoke a sense of intimate admiration and longing to please a partner, while the melodic structure ensures the track remains uplifting despite its introspective qualities.

By drawing inspiration from the enduring spirit of rock legends such as Elton John, Joe Cocker, and the Rolling Stones, Archer Stevens pays tribute to their predecessors without resorting to imitation. The soaring vocals and driving rhythm establish “Pretty Ugly” as a cathartic anthem that appeals to classic and contemporary rock enthusiasts. With this debut, Archer Stevens distinguishes itself as a band unafraid to experiment and honor its musical heritage, thus carving out its unique sonic identity. The result is a richly layered auditory experience that captivates from the first listen, revealing engaging narratives within the music.

For more information about Archer Stevens, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Archer Stevens’ “Pretty Ugly“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Archer Stevens | Instagram |